Latest news with #2025StJohn'sEasterRugbyFestival
The Citizen
22-04-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Jozi Cup Season 4 kicks off in May
Lions Cricket confirmed that the country's biggest T20 winter club cricket competition, The Jozi Cup, will commence in a month with Season 4 kicking off on May 11. The officially endorsed Lions Cricket community-based competition includes more than 25 clubs spanning 10 age group categories and more than 130 participating teams from U11 right through to over 40s. The brainchild of Lions Cricket, the Jozi Cup was developed to foster community club cricket, which ultimately serves as a continuation of the Pride's pipeline feeder system. Also read: Final day of Saints SportsFest underway in style Inclusive of blind cricket teams as well as players from the valued Telkom Talent Acceleration Programme, there really is no stone left unturned when it comes to unearthing the talent within the pipeline. Jozi Cup tournament director Reuben Mandlazi said the tournament provided continuity for those wanting to stay in form over the winter period, with stiff competition and superb exposure. 'This is a competitive tournament that offers players the opportunity to improve their game under the guidance of experienced players, while at the same time encouraging them to play with freedom,' he said. Also read: Thrilling U16 clashes to close out 2025 St John's Easter Rugby Festival He added that every year, the tournament strived to uphold its founding values of inclusivity, diversity, fairness, equity and equality no matter gender, race or religion; offering clubs and the entire cricketing eco-system something to look forward to each winter and feel a genuine sense of belonging to the Lions Pride. 'We are also thrilled to welcome a girls' U13 division for the first time – may you all enjoy the tournament as much as we do hosting it.' Lions Cricket CEO Jono Leaf-Wright said the SA20 Joburg Super Kings (JSK) would help elevate these tournaments once again. 'We are excited to have JSK a part of this tournament again and supporting our Jozi Cup. Having them involved certainly elevates the experience for all our participating clubs and players. We are also always so thrilled and grateful to the partners that jump on board to walk the Jozi Cup journey with us. Every sponsor, partner, team and volunteer aid in making this an exceptional experience and a project we are proud to power.' Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
21-04-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Thrilling U16 clashes to close out 2025 St John's Easter Rugby Festival
The final day of the 2025 St John's Easter Rugby Festival promises a thrilling conclusion, with a strong focus on the U16 division as some of South Africa's most promising young rugby talent takes to the field. With gates opening at 07:00 and the VIP Viewing Deck ready from 08h00, fans can expect a full day of intense matchups, camaraderie and school spirit. Burger Field will be the centre of attention, hosting a series of high-stakes U16 fixtures throughout the day. Also read: St John's stuns Randburg with last-second try in 33–26 Easter Festival thriller At 11:00, King Edward VII School faces off against the Steiner Pest Golden Lions Invitational XV in what is expected to be a fast-paced and physical contest. Both sides have shown flair and discipline in their previous games, setting the stage for a competitive encounter that could serve as a preview of future provincial talent. Following this, Helpmekaar Kollege will meet Pretoria Boys High School at 12:10. This clash brings together two rugby giants known for their structured play and relentless defence. Read more: Burger Field at St John's College delivers high-intensity clashes It promises to be one of the most technically compelling matchups of the day, with both teams eager to leave their mark on the tournament's closing stages. At 13:20, Afrikaans Hoër Seunskool takes on Hoërskool Noordheuwel in another U16 fixture brimming with potential. These teams have reputations for hard-hitting rugby and tactical sharpness, making this showdown one to watch for fans of disciplined, strategic play. Also read: Golden Lions stage stunning 20–16 comeback against St David's The final U16 game of the day – and the last of the tournament – sees host school St John's College facing Northcliff High School at 14:30. With the home crowd behind them, St John's will be determined to deliver a memorable performance, while Northcliff aims to spoil the party with an upset. This match is expected to draw a large audience and serve as a fitting end to a festival that has once again celebrated the best of youth rugby. As the sun sets on this year's event, the U16 division will have undoubtedly left a lasting impression, showcasing the strength and depth of South Africa's rugby future. Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and Caxton School's TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
